Intercultural Student Affairs

At Governors State University there’s a good chance you’ll meet classmates who look a lot like you – or completely different. The diversity of our learning community is one of the things that makes us stand out – everybody fits in here. Our diversity is just one of the reasons GSU changes lives.
We have programs that honor our diversity – and they’re just waiting for you to get involved in - special events, workshops, meetings and organizations. No matter which you choose, each recognizes the ethnic and cultural diversity of the campus as a community strength.

Celebrating Diversity & Social Justice

Let's celebrate diversity with our observance of history and heritage months. Throughout each designated month, Governors State University features a variety of programs and events highlighting the culture, traditions and contributions to society which these groups have made. During these months we host a variety of special events - you are bound to find one (or more) that you won't want to miss.

2015 WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH

Are you seeking historical information regarding great women throughout history? GSU Library has a collection of books, DVD's, and eBooks dedicated to women's history. Visit http://www.govst.edu/library and select the Library Catalog located under Library Resources. Type in Women's History Month for your keyword and you will find a listing of items that are currently available in the GSU Library. Visit the library or contact us at library@govst.edu

March 9th

FILM DISCUSSION: WOMEN'S LIFE AFTER PRISON

5 pm, Center for Performing Arts

Join us as we view a documentary on life after prison for women and their challenges and successes of re-acclimation to civilian life.

March 11th

INTERNATIONAL FASHION SHOW

2:50 pm, Hall of Governors

Come celebrate women of all cultures and diverse backgrounds. There will be a panel discussion with international women and their American experience as well as a fashion show showcasing cultural outfits.

March 24th

THE ROLE OF WOMEN IN CIVIL RIGHTS

6 pm, Sherman Hall

This presentation will focus on the leadership role that women of all colors and cultures took during the Civil Rights Movement. This will be demonstrated through a power point presentation. The presentation will include; videos of interview excerpts and photos. Additionally, guest performers will reenact a scene from this Era and present spoke word and music.

March 25th

INTERNATIONAL COFFEE TALK & FUNDRAISER

10 am- 4 pm, Hall of Governors

Come learn how women have played a major role in the farming of coffee globally. There will be conversations about their experiences throughout the day as well as opportunities to purchase coffee from around the world.

WOMEN'S HISTORY JEOPARDY

3:30 pm, Cafeteria Annex

Are you a guru of women's history? Do you know of the many contributions of women? If your answer is yes or even no, join us as we learn more about women through trivia.

March 26th

OPEN MIC

6 pm, Cafeteria Annex

Come join us as we celebrate women through spoken word, song, and other performing arts.

March 30th

INSPIRATIONAL WOMEN

2:30 pm, TBD

This interactive presentation will model a constructivist instructional delivery process that honors women in primary sources from the Library of Congress.

March 31st

SHE SPEAKS

12:30 pm, Cafeteria Annex

Inspired by TED TALKS, come here messages of hope and success delivered by GSU wome to empower, encourage and enlighten all that attend as they share stories of being a woman in various arenas.

Latino Heritage Month

Latin@ Heritage Month

Latin@ Month celebrates the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America.

During National Latin@ Heritage Month (September 15 to October 15) we recognize the contributions made and the important presence of Hispanic and Latin@ Americans to the United States and celebrate their heritage and culture. This year's theme is “A legacy of history, a present of action and a future of success.”

EXHIBITS & DISPLAYS

August 25th – September 30th I AMerican EXHIBITSergio Gomez, CuratorGSU Art GalleryAn art exhibit exploring the meaning of being American by 24 Artists exhibiting work from a variety of ethnic, cultural, and national perspectives.

September 15th - October 15thLATIN AMERICAN COUNTRIES FLAG DISPLAYHall of Governors

CULINARY EXPRESSIONSCampus Café Traditional Latin American cuisine will be served in the Café on various days throughout the month

LATIN@ HERITAGE COLLECTIONGSU LibraryThe library will be highlighting literary works and other resources pertaining to Latin@ heritage and authors Visit, www.govst.edu/library homepage and select the Library Catalog located under Library Resources. Type in GSU Latino Collection and you will find a listing of over 141 items that are currently in the GSU Library. For more information, visit the library or contact us at library@govst.edu.

PROGRAMS & EVENTS

Monday, September 15thHISPANIC vs. LATINO: HISTORIES, GEOPOLITICS AND THE COMPLEXITIES, A COSMIC IDENTITYFeaturing Michael Benitez, Social Justice Educator and Chief Diversity Officer & Dean of Diversity & Inclusion, University of Puget Sound4:30pm, Sherman HallIs there a preference for the terms Latin@ and/or Hispanic among the Hispanic/Latin@ community? This lecture problematizes and critically examines the difference between Hispanic and Latin@ formations and explores different understandings of the terms and how they are situated in Latin American and American contexts shaped by cultural and sociopolitical histories, historic and current migrations, and political agendas and conditions.

Tuesday, September 23rdMOVIE & DISCUSSION: CESAR CHAVEZwith Dr. Ellen Walsh, Assistant Professor of History, Dr. Andrae Marak, Chair of Humanities and Social Sciences & Dr. Ileana Baeza, Assistant Professor of Spanish7pm, F 1622The life and career of legendary civil and labor rights leader Cesar Chavez is dramatized, following Chavez's mission to officialize the rights of immigrants and farm workers, as well as his personal journey as a husband and father. Outspoken but gentle, willful but soft spoken, the organizer's unique presence and unwavering commitment to non-violent protest would make him an enduring symbol of freedom and equality for generations to come.

Friday, September 26thI AMerican RECEPTIONcurated by Sergio Gomez5pm, E/F CorridorA multi-media exhibition exploring what it means to be an “American” from the perspective of bi-cultural artists living in the United States.

DEMOCRACY NOW! SPEAKER: JUAN GONZALEZ7pm, Sherman HallHear from staff columnist for New York Daily News, co-host of Democracy Now, member of the Hall of Fame of the National Association of Hispanic Journalists (2008), and one of the founding fathers of UNITY: Journalists of Color.

Tuesday, October 14thMOVIE & DISCUSSION: WHICH WAY HOMEwith Elianna Barrios, Clinical Counselor, Heartland Alliance 7pm, F 1622Learn about the dangerous 2,000 mile journey children as young as 8 years old take in order to reach their families in the United States to escape violence and poverty. There will also be a discussion on diagnosis and treatment for the acculturation of undocumented children and how to create awareness and support.

Wednesday, October 15thEL GRITO CELEBRATION12pm – 2pm, Hall of GovernorsClose out Latin@ Heritage Month by participating in a festive celebration with food, games, live music and dancing.

Saturday, October 18thIMMIGRATION SERVICE DAY8am, Logan Square Neighborhood Association7am departure from Main Entrance Volunteer and learn more about the process to become an American citizen. RSVP at civicengagement@govst.edu.

We are looking for campus community members interested in joining our efforts. Send an email to Mr. Robert Clay, Director, Intercultural Student Affairs at rclay@govst.edu or call x4551 if interested or for more information.

Black History Month

EXHIBITS & DISPLAYS

ART OF THE YAKA: RITUAL
OBJECTS FROM THE CONGO

Dr. Arthur Bourgeois will display his artwork about
the Congo. His book entitled, “YAKA:
VISIONS OF AFRICA” give an overview of the exhibition that will also be
available through the GSU bookstore.

BLACK HISTORY LITERARY
WORKS & RESOURCES

GSU
Library

Are you seeking
historical information regarding Black History makers? GSU Library
has a collection of books, DVD’s and eBooks dedicated to Black History. Visitwww.govst.edu/library and select the Library Catalog located under Library
Resources. Type in Black History Month for your keyword and you will
find a listing of items that are currently available in the GSU
Library. Visit the library or contact us at library@govst.edu.

PROGRAMS & EVENTS

Tuesday, February 3rd

BLACK HISTORY IN THE BIBLE

5PM, A2150

Come learn about the African presence in the bible with Lambada Pi Eta Honor Society

Thursday, February 5th

NATIONAL BLACK HIV/AIDS AWARENESS DAY 10am – 4pm, F1622

National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day
(NBHAAD), a national HIV testing and treatment community mobilization
initiative targeted at Blacks in the United States and the Diaspora.

IMPACT OF THE PRISON SYSTEM ON THE BLACK COMMUNITY

5pm, Engbretson Hall

This
panel discussion will address the long term consequences of the mass
incarceration of blacks. Panelists will include faculty and formerly
incarcerated individuals.

Monday, February 9th

DEVELOPING CULTURAL COMPETENCE

3:45pm, The Cube

Participants
will receive a brief overview of Culturally Responsive Teaching Pedagogy, and
will consider the connection to social justice, multicultural education, and
diversity.

Tuesday, February 10th

THE “N” WORD

6pm, Sherman Hall

Sponsored by University
Program Council

A
panel discussion/ talk show format that will cover the history, usage and
impact of the N-word.

Wednesday, February 11th

Reflections of the CIVIL RIGHTS MOVEMENT

with Mr. Leon Anderson

3:30 pm, A2150

Come learn about the civil rights movement through the lens of elders in the community through first-hand accounts

Tuesday, February 17th

TEACHING BLACK HISTORY THROUGH PRIMARY SOURCES

7:30pm, D34011

Participants
will be introduced to the celebration of Black History Month through the eyes of
the Library of Congress' Primary Sources.

Wednesday, February 18th

MOVIE: DEAR WHITE PEOPLE

4:30pm, F1622

With tongue planted firmly in cheek, Dear
White People explores racial identity in 'post-racial' America while weaving a
universal story of forging one's unique path in the world. An educational discussion will follow the viewing of the movie.

Thursday, February 19th

THE AFRO-LATINO EXPERIENCE

7:30pm, B1240

Over the last two decades Afro-Latinos have begun to
be written back into the history of the Americas. Our panel will explore some of the key roles
that Afro-Latinos played in the region and the lasting impact that they have
made.

Friday, February 20th

VENDOR & RESOURCE FAIR

10am – 4pm, Hall of Governors

The Resource and Vendor
Fair will provide an opportunity for local business and agencies to sell
products and showcase their services as a precursor to Black Women Rock.
Please visit https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/XJGVQ62 to complete the form below by February 9th.

Saturday, February 21stBLACK WOMEN ROCK

6:30pm, Center for Performing
Arts

“Black Women Rock” (BWR) celebrates
the outstanding achievements of Black female students, faculty & staff at
Governors State University and community members in surrounding areas.

Monday, February 23rd

AFRICAN AMERICAN READ-IN

6pm-8pm, Hall of Honors

Come read your favorite book by an African American author

Tuesday, February 24th

MUSIC: CROSSING THE CULTURAL DIVIDE

5pm, Sherman Hall

Music has always played such a pivotal role in the progression of the Black culture. This program will focus on the platform music has provided for inclusivity.

Wednesday, February 25th

ARE BLACK FRATERNAL & CIVIC ORGANIZATIONS
RELEVANT?

6pm, Engbretson Hall

Do you believe Black fraternal and civic organizations
are still relevant today? What issues
should these organizations champion to help our communities advance? Come participate in a discussion about the
history and relevancy of these organizations in the 21st century.

BLACK INVENTIONS

12 m-5pm, Hall of Governors

This exhibition displays inventions by African
Americans as well as highlight how African American have used their ingenuity
to create career paths and opportunities for themselves through their invention
in the fields of science, technology, business, and other arenas.

Thursday, February 26th

HELP!!! DEBT STRESS IN BLACK COMMUNITY

12pm – 2pm, TBD

New research from a survey sponsored by the NAACP suggests
credit cards have become a “plastic safety net” trying to replace low wages and
sagging assets for African Americans. Participants will engage in dialogue
about coping with debt as well as potential solutions tailored to the Black
community.

OPEN MIC

featuring PRIME HIPSTERS DYNASTY

5pm, Café Annex

Sponsored by University
Program Council

Come join us as we share Black history through spoken
word, song and other performing arts

FOR COLORED BOYS

7pm, Center for Performing Arts

$10- students with ID

$20 general admission

"For Colored Boys" is an original stage play that depicts the interconnected lives of five men, exploring their lives and struggles as men of color.

Co-sponsored by

Black Student Union

Psychology Department

University Program Council

Intercultural Student Affairs

Student Life

Humanities Department

Career Services

Criminal Justice Department

Education Department

Fine Arts Department

Communications Department

Lambda Pi Eta Honor Society

HAVE IDEAS? CALL FOR PROGRAMS

February has been annually recognized as a time to celebrate Black History, since 1926 as a weeklong celebration, and since 1976 as a month-long celebration; commemorating the historical and cultural experiences and contributions of African Americans. Governors State University celebrates Black History Month with a series of events throughout February in association with student organizations and academic programs.

Women's History Month

Celebrating: Women of Character, Courage and Commitment.

Governors State University proudly celebrates Women’s History Month with a series of events throughout March. Prior to the 1970’s, the topic of women’s history was largely missing from general public consciousness. To address this situation, the Commission on the Status of Women initiated a “Women’s History Week” originally celebration in 1978 and chose the week of March 8 to coincide with International Women’s Day. The celebration was met with positive response, and in 1987, the National Women’s History Project successfully petitioned Congress to expand the celebration to the entire month of March.

Women and STEM TributeMarch 1 – 31Display Case: 1st floor, B-BuildingWhen you are walking down the hall of the B-wing; stop and take a look at the display of exceptional women involved with STEM: Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. For more information, email vnewby@govst.edu.

Multicultural Fashion Show & ContestMarch 44:00p.m. – 5:30p.m., Hall of GovernorsStudents will model an outfit to represent the country of their choice or a particular culture. Viewers will vote on the most creative outfit. There will also be a Henna Fundraiser. Come out and support!For more information, email gzapolskaya@student.govst.edu.

Be Prepared! Rape Aggression and Defense (R.A.D.) ClassMarch 89:00a.m.-5:00p.m., Recreation and Fitness Center R.A.D. is a program of realistic, self-defense tactics and techniques. This course is a comprehensive course for women that begins with awareness, prevention, risk reduction and avoidance, while progressing on to the basics of hands-on defense training. (Workshop open only to women.) For more information, email vgriffin@govst.edu.

Panel Discussion with Movie Screening: “Not My Life”March 116:00p.m. – 8:30p.m., Center for Performing ArtsA viewing the movie “Not My Life” followed by a panel discussion on the effects of human trafficking on women and children. For more information, email gzapolska@student.govst.edu.Labor Unions in the 21st Century: What is your [S]Take?Dr. Dan Gilbert, who is an Assistant Professor at the School of Labor and Employment Relations, University of Illinois, Urbana – Champaign. Will give a brief overview of the history of unions, perhaps with an emphasis on the role Chicago played, and talk about contemporary labor issues that might be more interesting to the students. For more information, email eruiz@govst.edu.

Film and Discussion: "Want I Want My Words to do to You"March 1312:30-3:30 p.m., Sherman Music Recital HallThis film looks at what brings women to prison throught their own voices as they write a play about their lives.For more information, email cjacobson@govst.edu.

Hot FlashesMarch 196:30p.m., Center for Performing ArtsCost: Free - GSU Students with ID, $10 - General Admission A play about the strength of women-young and old-as they overcome obstacles, face their issues and become "Phenomenal" in their own right. For event information, email vnewby@govst.edu.

"The Miracle Worker" Presented by Montana Repertory Theater March 21 8 p.m., Center for Performing ArtsCost:$25 / $35 / $45 Montana Repertory Theater returns with "The Miracle Worker," telling the story of Helen Keller, deaf and blind since infancy, who finds her way into the world of knowledge and understanding with the help of Anne Sullivan, her gifted tutor. In some of the most turbulent and emotion-packed scenes ever presented on the stage, Helen overcomes rage and confusion to triumph over her physical disabilities. For more information, email pguy@govst.edu.

Open Mic Night featuring Women’s PoetryMarch 275:00p.m. - 6:00p.m., Café AnnexInviting all women to participate in a poetry reading of your choice; selections must go along with the subject of women’s rights and/or women’s equality. To sign up and or more information, email gzapolska@student.govst.edu or ddent@govst.edu. Women’s History Month Closing Event: Mama’s PlaceMarch 287:00 p.m., Sherman Recital HallJoin us for a “Student Performance Spotlight” featuring Allen-Patricia Britten, this year’s GSU Idol winner, who performs excerpts of her original production of “Mama’s Place.” This is a story of one mother’s daily challenges as she struggles to raise five scrappy children with limited resources and negative outside influences. Her story will move you from laughter to tears particularly when a social worker shows up at her door; she risks losing it all as she fights to uphold her Christian values against a system in opposition to her beliefs. For more information, email ssanderson@govst.edu.

The National Student Leadership Conference addresses the most critical topics of diversity and social justice challenging our campuses today. The Diversity Conference is affordable opportunity for students leaders to learn more about diversity and inclusion. What are the workshop topics?

Diversity and Inclusion: What Every Leader & Advisor Needs to Know

Examining Sexual Orientation on your Campus & Becoming an Ally

Recognizing and Understanding the Foundation Privilege

No More Drama: Effective Conflict Resolution skills for Diverse Leaders on Campus

Asian-Pacific American Heritage Month

LGBT History Month

2014 LGBT HISTORY MONTH

Governors State University celebrates Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) History Month with a series of events during the month of October.

“For a community deprived of its history, LGBT History Month teaches our heritage, provides role models, builds community, and recognizes our extraordinary national and international contributions,” said Malcolm Lazin, executive director of the Equality Forum, an international civil rights organization.

LGBT History Month was first celebrated in 1994. October was chosen as the month for the celebration because National Coming Out Day was first held in October, and October commemorated the first march on Washington by LGBT people in 1979.

EXHIBITS & DISPLAYS

October 1st - 31st

31 DAYS, 31 ICONS

Student Commons and Select GSU Monitors

31 leaders, heroes, and community members who have made a difference in the LGBT community will be highlighted throughout the month. Each day in October, a new icon is featured with a video, biography, bibliography, images and other resources.

MARRIAGE EQUALITY DISPLAY

B Wing Hallway

This is a brief chronological history of marriage equality in Illinois, the United States, and the world. When and where was the first "gay marriage"? What are some of the triumphs and challenges in the history of marriage equality? Find out by visiting this display. You can even request to have additional events to be added to the timeline that are pertinent to you.

LGBTQ LITERARY WORKS & RESOURCES

GSU Library

Seeking to be more aware of the LGBT community? GSU Library has a collection of books, DVD's and eBooks dedicated to the LGBT experience. Visit, www.govst.edu/library and select the Library Catalog located under Library Resources. Type in Lesbian, Gay, Bi-Sexual, Transgender or LGBT for your keyword and you will find a listing of items that are currently available in the GSU Library. Visit the library or contact us at library@govst.edu.

PROGRAMS & EVENTS

Thursday, October 2nd

KICKOFF EVENT

11am - 4pm, Café Annex

Join us as we celebrate LGBT History Month. The kickoff will include light refreshments, highlights for each of the upcoming events, and information about each of the LGBT organizations and resources at Governors State University.

LECTURE: HOMOPHOBIA IN THE BLACK CHURCH

featuring Anthony Stanford, Author

5pm, E Lounge

Homophobia in the Black Church: How Faith, Politics, and Fear Divide the Black Community explores the various reasons for the Black Church's aversion-and the general black cultural inflexibility-toward homosexuality, same-sex marriage, and acceptance of the LGBT community. It connects black cultural resistance toward homosexuality to politics, faith, and fear; follows the trail of faith-based funding to the pulpit of black mega-churches; and spotlights how members of the black clergy have sacrificed black LGBT Christians for personal and political advancement.

Saturday, October 11th

NATIONAL COMING OUT DAY CELEBRATION

11am, B2203

Join us as we celebrate coming out as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (LGBT) or as an ally. Hear stories from the LGBT community, their families and allies about their experiences and learn how to support those who came out. Refreshments will be served. ALL are welcome to join the celebration regardless of sexual orientation.

Monday, October 13th

MOVIE SCREENING: PRAYERS FOR BOBBY

7:30, F1622

Bobby Griffith was an all-American boy ...and he was gay. Faced with an irresolvable conflict-for both his family and his religion taught him that being gay was "wrong"-Bobby chose to take his own life. Prayers for Bobby is the story of the emotional journey that led Bobby to this tragic conclusion. But it is also the story of Bobby's mother, a fearful churchgoer who first prayed that her son would be "healed," then anguished over his suicide, and ultimately transformed herself into a national crusader for gay and lesbian youth.

Thursday, October 16th

LGBT HISTORY AT GSU

featuring Eric Vironet, Founder of Gay Straight Alliance

4:30pm - 7:30pm; 6pm remarks, E/F Corridor

Come learnabout LGBT history at Governors State University as part of the 20th Anniversary of the Gay Straight Alliance.

Tuesday, October 21st

A RAINBOW OF OPPORTUNITIES

6pm, B1200

Everyone has the right to feel welcomed in a workplace where principles of fairness, respect, and equality are valued and promoted. An inclusive workplace has policies in place to ensure equality in human rights, employee welfare and fair recruitment practices. This presentation will discuss the benefits of working within an inclusive workplace and how to begin networking with such employers. Students will also be provided with information and resources from the Chicagoland area and online to assist the LGBT community with career planning and professional development.

Thursday, October 23rd

MOVIE SCREENING: LEAVE IT ON THE FLOOR

3:30pm, F1622

Been looking all your life for a sizzling mash-up of Paris Is Burning, Rent and Dreamgirls? Leave It On the Floor (2011) is that and more, a supersized musical featuring a family of fierce voguing performers coming together to snatch a trophy in the big ballroom competition.

Tuesday, October 28th

SAFE ZONE TRAINING

3:30pm - 5:30pm, Hall of Honors

SafeZone is a training program open to ALL students, staff, faculty, and community members. The goal of this program is to raise awareness about the dynamics of gender and sexual orientation while exploring different ways to embody inclusive allyship for people of all orientations, genders, sexualities, identities, and levels of being out. Participants must RSVP at safezone@govst.edu by October 20th.

2014 LGBT History Month Sponsors

Career Services

Civic Engagement & Community Service Center

Dean of Students

Gay Straight Alliance

Gender & Sexuality Studies

GSU Program Council

Intercultural Student Affairs

Interdisciplinary Studies

Library

Math Department

Student Life

Visual Arts Gallery

We are looking for campus community members interested in joining our efforts. Send an email to Mr. Robert Clay, Director, Intercultural Student Affairs at rclay@govst.edu or call x4551 if interested or for more information.

Universal Human Rights Month

In December we raise awareness to the struggle for human rights. The Presidential Proclamation for Human Rights Day reminds us that more than 60 years ago, the United Nations General Assembly approved the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, declaring the "inherent dignity" and "equal and inalienable rights" of all human beings as the "foundation of freedom, justice and peace in the world.